Be Sweet works with several job creation programs in South Africa by giving artisans the confidence and the means to support themselves and their families in an otherwise economically depressed region. The empowerment groups have grown to include over 200 villagers, mostly female members of the Xhosa tribe, who live in Cape Town, the Eastern Cape region and Johannesburg. Participants are responsible for making mohair, bamboo and organic cotton yarns, accessories and home goods. Many of the women depend on their work for their survival. With the help of experienced program directors, the women are able to work in stable environments where they can earn a fair wage, learn a new skill and enjoy their jobs.
Be Sweet also donates a portion of its profits to the Shaw Park School, a primary and secondary school in the Eastern Cape where many of the participants' children attend.
In addition, Be Sweet is contributing to a new South African based educational support non-profit program called Bright Start. Their mission is "to offer previously disadvantaged children a 'brighter future', by placing them in prominent local schools with proven excellent educational standards. Bright Start provides ongoing support and guidance to ensure the child reaches his or her full potential." Learn more at www.brightstart.org.za